French diplomat, spy and soldier (1728–1810) whose first 49 years were spent as a man, and whose last 33 years were spent as a woman. ALS in French, signed with the feminine form of the name, “La Chre D’Eon,” one page, 6.5 x 8.25, July 9, 1778. Letter to cartographer Nicolas de Calon. In part (translated): “Mgr. De Sartine has asked me…to have sent to him in Paris for a private conversation the person who will have the honor of transmitting this letter. I ask you to announce or to have announced by a valet de chambre that the traveller Mademoiselle d’Eon talked to him about and whom he wishes to see is in his antechambre. M. De Sartine will know what that means.” In fine condition, with intersecting folds, one through a single letter of signature. Sartine was head of Louis XV’s secret police. RR Auction COA.
